4-H course creates future pharmacists

Science is alive where Missouri 4-H Faculty brings difficult science concepts to life by providing hands-on educational experiences to enhance what kids are learning in the classroom.

Science is alive where Missouri 4-H Faculty brings difficult science concepts to life by providing hands-on educational experiences to enhance what kids are learning in the classroom.

The fourth science Saturday held in March let kids become Pharmacists for a day. Participants learned about chemistry, where medicine comes from, how to read product labels and how to use and store medicines safely.

Participants learned that salicylate was discovered as a pain reliever from the bark of a willow tree. It is found naturally in some foods and is added to many over the counter medicines as well as household products we use every day.

Participants took part in an experiment to test different products for salicylate by using ferric chloride. If there was a salicylate present the product would display a purple reaction.

Pepto-Bismol had a strong positive reaction as well as icy-hot, acne facial cleanser and wart remover. Lemons and tomatoes had a positive reaction as well. Shampoo, lotion, soap, and toothpaste did not. Participants were asked to give a prediction for each product, and to see if salicylate was listed as an ingredient on the product.

Michele Kroll, 4-H Youth Development Specialist is excited about this new program.

“I wanted to provide an opportunity for kids to learn science using hands-on experiences that were fun and informative. Concepts that are hard to grasp in school might be easier to understand in this kind of format.

This is the fourth program in a series of six. One program is offered on the first Saturday each month.” If it is successful and the kids learn from it I would love to continue these types of programs in the community,” Kroll said.

For more information about MU Extension and 4-H contact 573-346-2644 or go online at Http://extenion.missouri.edu/camden/4h

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